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Tax-Related Identity Theft

Identity theft is a growing problem, and tax-related identity theft in particular continues to increase each year. In 2015, tax-related identity theft continued to hold a high spot on the IRS’s annual “Dirty Dozen” tax scams list.

Tax return identity theft occurs when the taxpayer’s personal information, such as name, Social Security number (SSN), employer identification number, or other identifying information, is used without the taxpayer’s authority to file a fraudulent tax return (usually to claim a fraudulent refund or to obtain tax benefits). This type of identity theft carries serious consequences. It can take victims months just to prove their identity to the IRS, which in turn delays the processing of legitimate refund claims. According to the IRS, individual victims of identity theft “may lose job opportunities, be refused loans, education, housing or transportation, and may even be arrested for crimes they didn’t commit” (IRS Publication 4535, Identity Theft Prevention and Victim Assistance). Businesses may incur significant damage to their reputations, in addition to financial losses and the costs incurred to resolve the issues with numerous agencies.

Scams – Unless you have been in communication with a specific IRS agent regarding a specific matter, the IRS will never contact you via phone or email. Scammers often use these mediums to get personal information or con taxpayers into paying fake taxes/penalties. If the IRS needs to reach a taxpayer they generally do it via U.S. mail. Be suspicious. If you receive a notice that seems suspicious, we recommend that you contact a CPA.

Need help communicating with the IRS because you have been a victim of tax-related identity theft or you have received a suspicious notice? Atchley & Associates LLP may be able to assist you.

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One comment

Its really unfortunate that many people still become a victim of identity theft even if several forms of security have been imposed, both on a personal level and government level. I never thought that the repercussions of having your identity stolen can be more than just fraudelent transaction to obtain someone else’s refund. It actually goes to a point wherein a victim can suffer consequences such as loan refusal and arrest if the matter gets out of hand. People should realize that criminals always find a way to steal someone else’s identity so it really pays to be alert and aware of ways to avert becoming a victim.